When we talk about yellow gemstones, yellow sapphire stone is the first one that comes to our mind. This mesmerizing gem has unique characteristics, color, symbolism, and planetary significance. In Vedic astrology, yellow sapphire, also called Pukhraj in Hindi, is widely used. But do you know in astrology, there are substitutes for this gemstone, and which citrine is most popular? This gemstone also appears the same as that of Peela Pukhraj but features some differences. In this blog, we will discuss these differences to help you determine the best choice for yourself.
Yellow Sapphire vs. Citrine
Origin and Chemical Composition
Pukhraj comes from the corundum mineral, which is prized for its stunning golden hues and brilliance. It is a natural gemstone and has great significance in Vedic astrology. This yellow gemstone has strong durability and ranks nine on the Mohs scale of hardness. It is a perfect choice for daily wear jewelry.
Citrine is also called Sunela stone in Hindi. It is also a natural gem that comes from the quartz family. It ranks seven on the Mohs scale of hardness, comparatively less than sapphire. However, like corundum, it can also be worn as jewelry for everyday wear.
Color and Clarity
Yellow sapphire color varies from rich yellow to golden yellow. Orange and green overtones are common. The most sought-after ones exhibit saturated hue and vivid color. Sri Lankan yellow sapphire features a golden yellow color and is the most valued gemstone in Vedic astrology. Feathers are general inclusions found in these gems. Eye-clean Pukhraj is highly desirable.
Citrine stone also features eye-clean clarity. However, color zoning and slight inclusions are common. It features a light lemon to orange-yellow hue.
Symbolism and Meaning
Sapphire is the birthstone for September month whereas citrine gemstone is the birthstone for November month. In Vedic astrology, the natural Pukhraj stone symbolizes wealth, prosperity, and abundance. It is for the planet Jupiter or Guru. Yellow sapphires are suggested to be worn by individuals who have an ill-placed guru in their birth charts. As September Birthstone, it refers to loyalty, wisdom, and intelligence.
Citrine in astrology refers to merchant stone. It is a lucky stone for business people as it brings them immense wealth. The yellow color of the stone signifies positivity, joy, and abundance.
Both these gemstones possess powerful energy that activates the sacral chakra. It is the second chakra situated below the navel. Unblocking this energy center enhances positivity and creativity. Balancing this chakra reduces stress, anxiety, and related emotions.
Yellow Sapphire vs. Citrine: Price Comparison
The original Pukhraj stone price starts at INR 5,000 and INR 75,000 per carat and can be extended even more. Sunela Ratna, on the contrary, is more affordable and considered the best substitute for yellow sapphire stone. The price of this substitute starts from INR 500 and may extend to 5,000 or more depending upon the carat weight.
Wearing Yellow Gemstones in Astrology
Both Peela Pukhraj and citrine stones are associated with the planet Guru or Jupiter. They are worn to mitigate the ill effects of Jupiter. You can wear yellow sapphire or citrine as they both work in the same way. If you have a high budget, natural Pukhraj stone should be your first preference. Those on a low budget can pick Sunela Ratna.
- For males, wear Guru Ratna on the index finger of the right hand. Pushkaraj stone benefits for females include harmony in married life. Ladies can wear this stone on the same finger as the left hand.
- Whether mukhyratana or upratna, it should be worn in gold metal.
- A 3.25 ratti yellow sapphire stone is recommended for the wearer, whereas it is suggested to wear a 6.25-carat weight citrine stone.
- Before wearing any of these yellow gemstones, one should do the prana pratishta or Vedic pooja.
- The best day and time to wear these gems is Thursday morning. For this, you should keep the gem in raw milk overnight on Wednesday. Rinse it in the morning with gangajal and then apply Roli and rice.
- The mantra for wearing peela pukhraj is “ Om Brim Brihaspataye Namaha”.
To conclude, while comparing yellow sapphire vs. citrine, both these gemstones have different appearances but are for the same planet Jupiter. You can choose any of these gems as per your preference and budget.